A road trip from southern California to Valle de Guadalupe is an adventure in itself. Make sure you’ve got your passport, a full tank of gas, and Mexican car insurance. Once you cross the border, you can make a pit stop in Tijuana for a tableside Caesar salad at Caesar’s, the iconic birthplace of this classic dish. Or head a bit further south to Porto Nuevo for Mexican-style lobster — a feast worth the detour. You’ll know you’ve arrived in Valle when you hit dirt roads — and lots of them. This once-sleepy wine region is now a bustling hub of activity, with close to 150 wineries and countless dining options. Modernization is happening quickly, bringing with it both opportunities and challenges for the area’s unique charm. El Cielo Resort & Winery has been a constant in my Valle experience ever since I started traveling to the area in 2015. You’re greeted with a glass of wine upon arrival and after check-in you’re ushered to one of the 95 suites or villas. The resort boasts its own onsite winery and sprawling vineyards, some of which are farmed organically. Wine tastings are available, as well as unique experiences like a wine blending workshop, wine and chocolate pairings, and even a falconry demonstration in the vineyard. El Cielo’s culinary offerings include Latitud 32, a Michelin-recommended restaurant, serving Baja-Yucatán fusion cuisine that’s inventive and delicious. Start your mornings at Polaris, the onsite breakfast spot with plenty of Mexican and American offerings. Beyond El Cielo, Valle de Guadalupe offers a treasure trove of dining experiences. A few of my personal favorites include:
Exploring the Valle
